Though my family’s Christmas tree is littered with popsicle stick ornaments and sentimental keepsakes, I’ve always loved the idea of a themed tree. And let’s face it, the annual influx of hallmark-esque ornaments can get a little tired.

I’m obsessed with the idea of a cocktail-themed Christmas tree, especially for the hostesses who plan to throw a couple Holiday soirees this season. Aside from decorating your tree with cocktail-inspired ornaments, you can adorn the branches with party essentials, like drink charms or cocktail stirrers. Voila!—your tree doubles as a clever bar or serving area. Tie mini liquor nips from the local drugstore to the branches and direct guests to help themselves at the happy hour tree!

These reindeer drink charms ($20 for the whole reindeer gang), from Etsy seller Clinks, can hang from your tree while not busy marking your guests’ glasses.

Another stemware option are these twinkle light drink skirts. They can light up your tree when not adorning the base of wine glasses.

Check back for more theme decorating ideas that break the traditional holiday mold—and don’t forget to click through this drink-themed slideshow. You may not be able to wait until after Thanksgiving to start celebrating!

Have you ever opted for a themed tree?

Holiday cheer is infectious here at Kaboodle HQ!  We’re amped about Your Holiday Headquarters, including all the gift picks from our  “Shopping Scouts.” One our “Scouts,” Kaboodler rmagna, selects practical gifts—from a picnic basket to a portable DVD player. Check out all her Practical Presents here and cruise other scouts’ picks while you’re at it. You’re sure to find sensational ideas for the friends and fam!
 

Even though we have about two months before Santa will slide down anyone’s chimney with his sack of toys and cookie-hungry belly, it’s never too early to start perfecting your baking skills. And don’t forget to stock up on a plethora of festive cookie platters to display your scrumptious creations. Since we’re approaching the season dedicated to milk and cookies, I can’t wait to curl up with this efficient and streamlined Dunk Mug. The convenient slot for cookies is also great for portion control—I’ll take all the help I can get in that area this season! And I’m sure Santa would appreciate the consideration to his waistline as well as he makes his rounds on Christmas Eve. Peep this slideshow of easy holiday baking recipes and festive plates for Santa’s cookies.

There’s something so novel and fun about photo booth pictures—maybe because they remind me of theme parks and trips to the mall with girlfriends. So imagine my delight when I found this photo booth frame from Urban Outfitters! It has clear plastic sleeves that will turn a collection of photographs into a nostalgic, space-maximizing arrangement. I have high ceilings, limited wall space, and a ton of pictures—sounds like the picture perfect recipe for a few of these fun frames. And the best part: One of these is only $4!

The editors of the Posh Kit taught us that the exposed zipper was a fashion trend to watch for 2009. But has this style zipped its way over to home décor? One would think so upon looking at these Silver Zipper Shot Glasses ($40 for set of four). Hand-painted teeth and a real pull give these glasses fashionable flair...and with the zippers half-open, a flirtatious front.

What do you think of these zipped shots?